It takes more than one
Why IVF patients often need multiple embryos to
have a baby
Not all eggs fertilize
In human reproduction, a single egg is released during each menstrual cycle. While research shows that approximately 80% of those having unprotected sex over the course of a year will become pregnant, many more eggs will never fertilize or lead to a pregnancy, while some eggs that do fertilize do not implant in the uterus.Many eggs fertilize but do not continue to grow and develop into an embryo
During the in vitro fertilization (IVF) process, usually only 70% of mature eggs fertilize, and of those fertilized eggs, only 50% continue to develop into a blastocyst which can be transferred into a uterus.Even if fertilized eggs grow into embryos, not all embryos implant to create a pregnancy
It is estimated that, in people who have unprotected sex, only about half of fertilized eggs successfully implant into the uterus to initiate a pregnancy.¹ During the IVF process, fertilized eggs are cultured in the lab, and those that divide and develop to the blastocyst stage (achieved after 5 days and enough cell divisions so that there are around 60-80 cells) are further evaluated, in some cases using genetic testing. Of those that reach this stage, the embryos determined to have the best chance at resulting in a healthy pregnancy and live birth are transferred, one at a time, into the patient in hopes of establishing a pregnancy.Transferring one embryo at a time is best medical practice
Advances in science and medicine have led to improved pregnancy outcomes over the last three decades. ASRM guidelines make clear that transferring one embryo – in hopes of it developing into a single baby (or singleton) – is best practice. Even twin births significantly increase the risks of obstetrical complications, including maternal and fetal morbidities. Accordingly, ASRM practice guidelines in most cases recommend transferring a single embryo during an IVF cycle, and data shows this has successfully lowered the number of multiple gestations and led to healthier birth outcomes.What happens to the other embryos?
Often, a patient will have more than one embryo that is suitable for transfer. At the patient’s request, those embryos can be cryopreserved for future use. If the first transfer does not result in a birth, or if the patient desires additional children, the embryos will be available for their use. When a patient decides that their family building journey is complete, they can decide what will happen with the remaining embryos. Some patients choose to continue to store them. Some may opt to discard them. Some may choose to donate them for research. Some patients seek to donate them for use by another patient or couple seeking to have a child.Patients must maintain the freedom to decide for themselves what happens to their embryos and their own genetic material. The government should not decide this for them.
For almost a century, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) has been the global leader in multidisciplinary reproductive medicine research, ethical practice, and education. ASRM impacts reproductive care and science worldwide by creating funding opportunities for advancing reproduction research and discovery, by providing evidence-based education and public health information, and by advocating for reproductive health care professionals and the patients they serve. With members in more than 100 countries, the Society is headquartered in Washington, DC, with additional operations in Birmingham, AL. www.asrm.org | publicaffairs@asrm.org
¹ Jarvis, S. (2016), Clarifying the Scope of Conceptual Transfer. Language Learning, 66: 608-635. https://doi.org/10.1111/lang.12154
Resources For You
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) is committed to providing patients with the highest quality information about reproductive care.
More Reproductive RIghts Resources
Advocacy
Leave Your Mark! NIAW April 21-27
National Infertility Awareness Week Action Round-Up Click here to leave your mark during NIAW2024
SART Fertility Experts - Advocacy and Reproductive Access
Dr. Cristin Slater and Betsy Campbell from RESOLVE discuss: barriers to infertility care; opportunities to get infertility care; and recent trends. Listen to the Episode
A Message from the Office of Public Affairs
ASRM is already pushing for legislation in Congress and the states to protect IVF. It requires resources to analyze and advocate for or against these bills. Help ASRM Protect IVF
Professional and Patient Advocates call for new Fertility Fraud Legislation
ASRM and RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association offer model legislation, call for Congress and the states to prioritize passage.
Read the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Infertility Advocacy and Government Affairs
In today's episode, Dr. Mark Trolice interviews Sean Tipton about the fact that many infertility patients do not have insurance coverage for treatment. Listen to the Episode
Take Action Now!
Like you, ASRM is extremely concerned over the decision from the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade and its impact. Learn How Your Can Help
Advocacy Toolkit
The importance of your involvement in the lobbying process, especially at the local level, has never been greater.
View the Toolkit
What support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resource
State and Territory Infertility Insurance Laws
View insurance information by US State and Territory View Insurance Laws by U.S. State
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments. View the advocacy resources
Reproductive Rights and You
The U.S. Supreme Court’s opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (597 U.S. __, 2022), overturned the nearly 50-year precedent set by Roe v. Wade (410 U.S. 113, 1973), which had recognized a constitutional right to abortion. The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. Protect Your RightsReproductive Rights
ASRM provides testimony to Senate Judiciary Committee on threats facing IVF
ASRM shared with the Senate Judiciary Committee the dangers to reproductive medicine nearly two years after the Dobbs decision.
View the Press Release
ASRM reacts to Alabama legislation
We are pleased that the legislation passed into law by the Alabama General Assembly will at least allow our members in the state to care for their patients.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Proposed Alabama Legislation
We are proud of our Alabama members and their patients, who have been such incredible advocates working to motivate their legislators to protect IVF.
View the Press Release
Senate Budget Hearing is Well Timed Following Alabama IVF Ruling
ASRM statement regarding the Senate Budget Committee’s hearing entitled: No Rights to Speak of: The Economic Harms of Restricting Reproductive Freedom.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Senate’s Failure to Pass Access to Family Building Act
We are disappointed by the Senate’s failure to meet the moment and pass federal legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
View the Press Release
Society of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists (SRBT) Condemns Recent Court Decision in Alabama
The recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are legally considered people has sparked controversy and concern.
View the Press Release
ASRM Condemns Profoundly Misguided and Dangerous Court Decision in Alabama
In LePage v Mobile Infirmary Clinic, the Alabama Supreme Court made a decision that flies in the face of medical reality and the needs of the citizens.
View the Press Release
ASRM applauds introduction of Access to Family Building Act of 2024
ASRM is thrilled by the introduction of the Access to Family Building Act
View the Press Release
Take Action Now!
Like you, ASRM is extremely concerned over the decision from the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade and its impact. Learn How Your Can Help
Advocacy Toolkit
The importance of your involvement in the lobbying process, especially at the local level, has never been greater.
View the Toolkit
What support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resource
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments. View the advocacy resources
Reproductive Rights and You
The U.S. Supreme Court’s opinion in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization (597 U.S. __, 2022), overturned the nearly 50-year precedent set by Roe v. Wade (410 U.S. 113, 1973), which had recognized a constitutional right to abortion. The Dobbs decision has sparked a litany of changes in state laws across the nation, and more are expected. Protect Your RightsIn Vitro Fertilization (IVF)
ASRM Files Amicus Brief in Texas Embryo Case
ASRM has filed an amicus curiae (friend of the court) brief in the case of Antoun v Antoun, which is pending before the Texas Supreme Court.
View the Press Release
Survey shows strong support for increased access to fertility treatments
A new public opinion poll reveals strong support for improved access to In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).
View the Press Release
National Infertility Awareness Week 2024: Leave Your Mark
Next week is National Infertility Awareness Week, a federally recognized health observance founded to increase awareness of infertility.
View the Press Release
IVF-assisted pregnancies constitute 2.5% of all births in 2022
In 2022, the number of babies born from IVF increased from 89,208 in 2021 to 91,771 in 2022. This means that 2.5% of births in the US are a result of ART.
View the Press Release
ASRM provides testimony to Senate Judiciary Committee on threats facing IVF
ASRM shared with the Senate Judiciary Committee the dangers to reproductive medicine nearly two years after the Dobbs decision.
View the Press Release
ASRM reacts to Alabama legislation
We are pleased that the legislation passed into law by the Alabama General Assembly will at least allow our members in the state to care for their patients.
View the Press Release
IVF at the SOTU: Fertility care expected to be major focus at State of the Union
Protecting access to IVF care is expected to be a major theme of the State of the Union on Thursday.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Proposed Alabama Legislation
We are proud of our Alabama members and their patients, who have been such incredible advocates working to motivate their legislators to protect IVF.
View the Press Release
Senate Budget Hearing is Well Timed Following Alabama IVF Ruling
ASRM statement regarding the Senate Budget Committee’s hearing entitled: No Rights to Speak of: The Economic Harms of Restricting Reproductive Freedom.
View the Press Release
ASRM Responds to Senate’s Failure to Pass Access to Family Building Act
We are disappointed by the Senate’s failure to meet the moment and pass federal legislation protecting access to in vitro fertilization (IVF).
View the Press Release
Society of Reproductive Biologists and Technologists (SRBT) Condemns Recent Court Decision in Alabama
The recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court that frozen embryos are legally considered people has sparked controversy and concern.
View the Press Release
ASRM Condemns Profoundly Misguided and Dangerous Court Decision in Alabama
In LePage v Mobile Infirmary Clinic, the Alabama Supreme Court made a decision that flies in the face of medical reality and the needs of the citizens.
View the Press Release
ASRM applauds introduction of Access to Family Building Act of 2024
ASRM is thrilled by the introduction of the Access to Family Building Act
View the Press Release
SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss and Implantation Failure
"I can get pregnant, but I can't stay pregnant," is echoed by patients with recurrent pregnancy loss. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Navigating IVF as a Couple
Mary Casey Jacob, PhD is interviewed by Dr. Daniel Grow, and together they explore the emotional and practical support that couples need. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Candace discusses her experience with infertility, IVF, multiple pregnancy losses and ultimately a successful delivery with Dr. Julia Woodward.Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Infertility Advocacy and Government Affairs
In today's episode, Dr. Mark Trolice interviews Sean Tipton about the fact that many infertility patients do not have insurance coverage for treatment. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Behind the Scenes in the IVF Lab
Dr. Sangita Jindal, helps patients understand the importance of the IVF lab when choosing an IVF program. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Your Infertility Nurse: Partner in Your Care
Infertility nurse practitioner and health coach Monica Moore explains the essential role of the infertility nurse in the IVF process. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Genetics and IVF
Genetics is a significant part of advanced reproductive technology screening. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - Fertility and LGBTQ
In this episode, Dr. Daniel Grow interviews Dr. Mark Leondires, the founder of Gay Parents To Be. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - What is an REI?
These experts in infertility lead IVF programs, perform reproductive surgery, and perform research to enhance the field of reproductive medicine. Listen to the Episode
SART Fertility Experts - What is IVF?
In this episode, we discuss the ins-and-outs of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Listen to the Episode
Start with SART
The very first thing you should do when evaluating a clinic is verify that it is a member of SART. Watch Video
Preparing for In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): Lifestyle Factors
This SART micro-video discusses lifestyle factors that may affect in vitro fertilization, or IVF, outcomes. Watch Video
The Difference Between IUI and IVF
It is important to know Intrauterine insemination (IUI) or In vitro fertilization (IVF) can both be successful at helping grow your family. Watch Video
Understanding the SART Clinic Report
During this video we will discuss the SART Clinic Report concepts and demonstrate some of the report features. Watch Video
Infertility: an Overview (booklet)
Infertility is typically defined as the inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of unprotected intercourse. View the booklet
Progesterone supplementation during IVF
Progesterone is a hormone produced by the ovary. View the fact sheet
What is intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)?
A procedure called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) can be done along with in vitro fertilization (IVF) if a sperm cannot penetrate the outer layer of an egg. Read the Fact Sheet
In vitro fertilization (IVF): what are the risks?
IVF is a method of assisted reproduction in which a man’s sperm and a woman’s eggs are combined outside of the body in a laboratory dish. View the fact sheet
What is In Vitro Maturation (IVM)?
In vitro maturation (IVM) is when a woman’s eggs are collected and matured outside the body. This is done as part of an in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedure. View the fact sheet
Fertility Rights and Responsibilities
Can a fertility program or clinic deny treatment to patient(s) if there is concern about the ability to care for the child(ren)? Yes. Fertility programs can withhold services if there are signs that patients will not be able to care for child(ren). View this Fact Sheet
Preimplantation genetic testing (including preimplantation genetic diagnosis and preimplantation genetic screening)
Your embryos can be tested for abnormal chromosomes before they are transferred to the uterus. View the fact sheet
What do I need to know about conceiving after tubal surgery?
Fallopian tubes connect the ovary (where the eggs are stored and grow) to the uterus (womb), where the fertilized egg develops into a baby (fetus). View the fact sheet
Hydrosalpinx
The fallopian tubes are attached to the uterus (womb) on the left and right sides. View the Fact Sheet
Side effects of injectable fertility drugs (gonadotropins)
Gonadotropins are fertility medications given by injection that contain follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) alone or combined with luteinizing hormone (LH). View the fact sheet
Kristen Ritchie's Story
I spent seven years navigating infertility, which was tumultuous but also a period of tremendous personal growth in hindsight. Read the story
In Vitro Fertilization Infographics
ASRM has prepared infographics to illustrate the subject of in vitro fertilization (IVF) better. View the infographics
What support for IVF looks like
Bipartisan support for IVF, that is responsible for the birth of over 2% of all babies born in the USA each year, will ensure that families continue to grow. View the advocacy resource
SART FAQ About IVF
Created by the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology (SART) the following are answers to frequently asked questions concerning in vitro fertilization (IVF). Learn the facts
Advocacy Resources
ASRM has prepared resources to help explain and advocate for reproductive rights and the continuation of in vitro fertilization and other fertility treatments. View the advocacy resourcesFind a Health Professional
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